watermelon radish recipes

An heirloom variety of Chinese daikon, this delicacy goes by many names — watermelon radish, xin li mei, and beauty heart. Why? Because no single name could do it justice! Its size, coupled with its white/pale green exterior, immediately lets you know that this is not your average radish. Still, the real treat awaits. Slice one open and you’ll be greeted by a gorgeous pink interior that looks more like candy than a veggie.

Fittingly, watermelon radishes are sweet and mild, with just a tiny hint of pepper. With a well-balanced flavor profile, they’re perfect for all sorts of raw, pickled, and cooked preparations.

Come explore nature’s candy with a few of our favorite rad dishes:

Apple Radish Slaw

Ingredients:
1 apple (Honeycrisp or similar), sliced into matchsticks
1 large watermelon radish, sliced into matchsticks
3 bundles of mint, leaves only
2 tbsp cilantro, diced
2 cups napa cabbage, sliced thin
1/4 cup finely diced red onion

Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp honey or agave
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
1 tsp sesame seeds
Pinch salt
Fresh ground black pepper to taste

Directions:
1. In a bowl, add honey and lemon juice. Use a fork or whisk to combine.
2. Drizzle in olive oil, stirring continuously. Once fully emulsified, add rice wine vinegar, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. In a large mixing bowl, add sliced apples, watermelon radish, mint, cilantro, onion, and napa cabbage. Toss to combine.
4. Drizzle dressing over the mix and toss to fully coat in the dressing.
5. Enjoy!